European Rural Development Policy: a (r)evolution!
Today, the rural development policy deals with the multiple roles of agriculture in society and challenges faced in rural areas. Grouped around four axes, the measures presented by the Walloon Region were approved in late November by the European Commission.
The implementation of the new Rural Development Program for the period 2007-2013, reflects a concentration of efforts on the policy of the second pillar of the Common Agricultural Policy. The means previously available to rural areas have been synthesized in a single program. During previous program periods we witnessed the coexistence of several plans, programs or initiatives that each dealt with one or another area or project. The objective pursued by the new Rural Development Program is to bundle and include the various projects under the second pillar for the benefit of rural areas.
One program, one region
Here is an initial overview of the provisions contained in this new program.
It is not only an instrument of agricultural development but is aimed at creating a framework for economic activities, practiced in rural areas, which is more comprehensive.
To find more information on the operation of the WRDP for 2007-2013 (in french), have a look at the special website at www.pwdr.be
